Meaning of "Oh Father" by Madonna

The lyrics of "Oh Father" delve into the complicated relationship between Madonna and her father. The song explores themes of pain, healing, and personal growth. Madonna expresses her understanding of how one can become accustomed to tears and suffering, illustrating the normalization of abuse. She reflects on the belief she held as a child, that her father never loved her, and reveals her freedom from his grasp. The line "I got away from you, I never thought I would" signifies Madonna's victory over the hold her father once had on her. It represents her liberation and her ability to stand up for herself.

The repetition of the line "You can't hurt me now" displays Madonna's defiance and strength. Having overcome the pain inflicted upon her, she declares her resilience and the transformation she has undergone. Madonna once felt powerless, but now she never felt so good about herself, indicating her newfound self-love and confidence. The lyrics also touch on the complexity of the situation, as Madonna questions why her father inflicted harm upon her when he perhaps never wanted to live that way or hurt her. She ponders if there might be hidden pain or unresolved issues in his own life that led him to mistreat her.

In the final verse, Madonna empathizes with her father, suggesting that her escape from his control has given her the ability to understand that he too may have suffered. She suggests that his cruelty may have stemmed from someone hurting him in the past, expressing a level of forgiveness and compassion. Madonna concludes by acknowledging her own growth and the possibility of someday looking back on her experience without resentment, recognizing that her father's actions were not entirely intentional.